Biomimicry and Architecture for the Future: Janine Benyus

I am ecstatic to have Janine Benyus in the tipping series not only because its relevant to have a few scientists in these dialogues, but also because she is one of the leading voices in the emerging field of Biomimicry, which can be explained quite nicely as:Innovation inspired by nature.

In our interview Janine calls human beings ‘toddler’s with matches’, and I just love this phrase! She gives us necessary perspective that in biological terms we are a very young species, one which has evolved to the point where it will either destroy itself or transform into it’s next stage of development.

On the hopeful front, I find the type of science the Biomimicry represents as a potential harbinger regarding where we are on the evolutionary path. I mean, how COOL is it that science has evolved to the point of recognizing that certain things in nature work while certain things do not, and that we can consciously choose to study the things that are working, learn from them, mimic them, and give ourselves the best chance of continuing on.

Biomimicry looks to the natural world for successful organisms, things that have been here for millions of years, and searches for helpful clues as to their longevity. We can then put these design features into use in real-world architecture and creation. Buildings based on the principles of a tree, water systems flowing like the contours of a leaf….incredible stuff!

Biomimicry is a breath of fresh air, utilizing the best of human consciousness, awareness and compassion. Imagine designing buildings, cities and even whole countries based on the principles of how nature works…this is the tipping point in action!